Farm Animal Welfare

Farmed Rabbit EU Welfare Reform Progress

Farmed rabbit welfare in the EU is among the most neglected in agriculture, with millions housed in conventional cages without enrichment.

Key Facts

Over 180 million rabbits are farmed annually in the EU
Conventional cages prevent most natural behaviour including running, jumping, and hiding
Rabbits are among the most fearful prey animals and suffer particularly from confinement
Park systems providing floor space and enrichment significantly improve welfare
EU welfare legislation specifically for rabbits remains limited despite campaigns

Welfare Considerations

Farmed rabbits experience significant welfare deprivation in conventional cage systems. These animals are prey species with high fear responses that are poorly suited to barren confinement. The welfare case for reform is strong, but regulatory progress has been slow. Consumer demand for higher welfare rabbit products and advocacy for legislative reform are the most effective drivers of change.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for EU welfare legislation covering farmed rabbits
Choose rabbit products from park system or enriched housing farms
Advocate for retailers to adopt higher welfare sourcing commitments for rabbit